Howard did let in a couple of bad goals during both series but for the majority of the time he kept the team in the game when the defense was getting turned around. I, just like everyone, wanted to see the Wings go deep into the playoffs, but you just had a feeling this wasn't their year. Howard got some valuable experience and will be ready for next season, a season in which there will probably be a few major changes.

Exactly, unless people want to get rid of Zetterberg to get an "elite" goalie that could still just fall apart (Luongo, Theodore etc.), I'm completely content with having Howard make the first save, he kept the Wings close and we couldn't bail him out.

Excellent information! I agree whole heartedly that Howard deserves way more respect than he has been given by many of the posters to this forum! The safe assumption is that Howard has learned a tremendous amount during his first NHL playoff experience. And with that experience should come an increase in confidence, and a goalie to build and reshape this team with. He's earned the starting position next season, and it will be up to someone else to perform and knock him out of it. Good Luck to them. GO WINGS!